Principal Engineer for Data Center BESS

Job Description

The Data Center BESS Principal Engineer is a senior-level technical role with a focus on supporting Global DC Sales while being a key individual contributor within the Sales Engineering organization. This role is responsible for supporting Sales to lead end-to-end technical strategy and solution development, as well as for coordinating cross-functionally inside Fluence across the technical teams. The DC Solutions Principal will also serve as a thought leader who can support external engagements with industry advocacy and rule setting bodies.

Key Responsibilities

Data Center Solutions

• Lead end-to-end technical strategy and solution development for data center energy infrastructure opportunities from concept through contracting and execution.
• Architect scalable system solutions aligned to customer requirements, utility constraints, and Fluence product roadmap.
• Own grid studies, modeling, and technical evaluations supporting interconnection, contracting, and solution validation.
• Serve as the primary technical interface across customers, utilities, regulators, EPCs, and OEMs to resolve risks and drive alignment.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams (Sales Engineering, GID, Modeling, Product, Execution) to define requirements and ensure successful delivery.
• Ensure continuity of technical intent through execution, commissioning, and onsite validation.

Advanced Grid-Forming (GFM) Projects

• Keep abreast of and follow lessons learned from technical execution of advanced GFM BESS projects across Americas markets from development through commissioning and operational acceptance.
• Define control philosophies and sequences of operation across BESS and hybrid plant configurations (PV, wind, thermal).
• Drive alignment with utilities, ISOs, and regulators on interconnection, grid code compliance, and dynamic performance requirements.
• Coordinate EMT/RMS modeling, controls validation, and compliance deliverables with inverter vendors, GID, and Modeling teams.
• Support technical negotiations with key stakeholders (e.g., system operators, utilities) on performance, testing, and compliance strategy.
• Keep abreast of and follow lessons learned from commissioning and testing to validate GFM performance and coordinated plant behavior.

Technology Strategy & Innovation

• Evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., SSTs, advanced controls) to shape Fluence's roadmap and market entry strategy.
• Develop business cases and executive materials to inform product, platform, and investment decisions.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Ability to work as a team player, focusing on the organization's success. Ability to work in a matrixed organization, collaborating and sharing information across multiple teams.
• 10-15 years of electrical or mechanical experience in energy storage, electrical infrastructure, power generation, or related fields.
• Proven track record closing complex, multimillion‑dollar B2B transactions with sophisticated counterparties (e.g., hyperscalers, colocation providers, utilities, developers, EPCs).
• Deep understanding of data center power requirements and stakeholders and/or enterprise electrical infrastructure, in addition to experience with utilities, IPPs, developers, and/or large energy customers.
• Expertise to engage deeply with engineering and operations teams on topics such as medium-voltage electrical distribution, load profiles, interconnection, power quality, controls/integration, and project execution constraints.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and executive‑level presentation skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts into clear business outcomes.
• Master's degree in electrical engineering or related discipline required.
• Professional Engineering license preferred.

Additional Skills

• Deep knowledge of energy storage technologies, grid services, and utility market design; ability to connect these capabilities to data center outcomes (reliability, cost, carbon, speed-to-power).
• Deep knowledge of data center electrical infrastructure and project delivery (e.g., MV/LV distribution, substations, UPS and backup generation interfaces, protection schemes, commissioning) and how a utility‑scale BESS integrates at the site or grid level.
• Experience with PSCAD modeling and hardware in the loop testing.
• Ability to influence without authority and collaborate across a global matrix organization.
• Highly organized, self‑directed, and comfortable operating in a dynamic environment.

Our Culture

At Fluence, our culture is the foundation that drives our ambitious growth strategy and fuels our mission to transform the future of energy. Our core cultural pillars empower us to innovate, collaborate, and lead with purpose, ensuring we continue to deliver unparalleled value to our customers and the world.

Unleash Voices

We believe every voice matters. We encourage openness, active listening, and decisive action to create a culture where everyone has the opportunity to contribute to our success. We foster an environment where diverse perspectives are heard and valued, driving innovation and progress.

Customer Fluent

Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. We're committed to delivering exceptional value that exceeds expectations by understanding our customers' needs and adapting swiftly to meet them. Our deep focus on customer satisfaction drives us to continuously improve and innovate.

Infinite Impact

We are committed to creating the impossible. We push boundaries to deliver sustainable, game-changing solutions that shape a brighter, more energy-efficient future for all. Our team is passionate about making a lasting impact that will resonate for generations to come.

All In

We are all in for growth. Our teams are relentlessly focused on identifying and seizing opportunities that propel us forward. We embrace an ownership mindset, pushing ourselves and each other to accelerate progress and create lasting success.

Equal Opportunity Employer
At Fluence, we believe great teams are built on a collaborative and connected culture. We're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome qualified applicants of all backgrounds. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.

Work Authorization
To join our team, you'll need to be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout your employment, without the need for employer sponsorship. Please note that Fluence does not sponsor work visas for this position.